Red Kidney Beans
A hearty and flavorful dish of red kidney beans with ham, seasoned with herbs and spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the beans in a large covered pot on low heat until tender.
- Add ham or other seasoning meat to the beans during cooking.
- In meat drippings, sauté onions, garlic, celery, parsley, and bay leaves.
- Add the sautéed mixture to the beans and continue to cook for 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours, adding water if necessary.
- Cook until the beans are done. Serve over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, soak the red kidney beans overnight before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve texture. If you're short on time, you can use canned beans, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked sausage as a substitute for the ham. You can also add diced bell peppers or spices like cayenne for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is best served over fluffy rice to soak up the savory juices. Consider pairing it with cornbread or a side of String Beans for a complete meal. A fresh salad or coleslaw can also balance the richness of the beans. For a delightful beverage, serve with a refreshing Strawberry Sparkler.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the beans seem too thick. For longer storage, consider freezing the beans in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Kidney Beans contains roughly 756 calories, with 42g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (207% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (141% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1751mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans instead of red kidney beans?
Yes, you can substitute other beans such as pinto or black beans. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. Red kidney beans add a unique flavor and texture, but other beans will still work well in this recipe.
How do I know when the beans are properly cooked?
The beans are ready when they are tender and can be easily mashed between your fingers. If they are still hard, continue to simmer them and check every 15 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become mushy.
What can I do if my beans are too salty?
If your dish turns out too salty, you can add a few slices of potato while simmering, which will absorb some of the saltiness. Alternatively, adding a bit of unsalted broth or water can help balance the flavors without compromising the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).